Pets for Patriotshttps://petsforpatriots.org
Companion pet adoption for United States military veterans and service membersFri, 09 Dec 2016 15:21:51 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.6.1115926112Marine Corps combat veteran knows “a pet can change your life”https://petsforpatriots.org/marine-corps-combat-veteran-knows-a-pet-can-change-your-life/
https://petsforpatriots.org/marine-corps-combat-veteran-knows-a-pet-can-change-your-life/#commentsMon, 05 Dec 2016 22:45:49 +0000https://petsforpatriots.org/?p=24659Bill is a Marine Corps combat veteran who started his life anew by acting on his belief that …

]]>Bill is a Marine Corps combat veteran who started his life anew by acting on his belief that “a pet can change your life.” After serving in some of the most dangerous places on the planet he made – and kept – a vow to give a shelter dog the best home possible thanks to our partnership with the Baltimore Humane Society.

Semper Fi

I’m in my sophomore year attending University of Maryland Baltimore County for computer science, full time, using my GI Bill.

I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2006 for Motor Transportation as a wrecker operator. I went to Parris Island for recruit training and went on to my MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) school. I trained in convoy operations and also went to mountain warfare training in Bridgeport, California prior to my deployment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2010.

My platoon was selected from our company to specifically provide direct support to infantry units throughout Marjah, and meant we were able to see bases and countryside from nearly the Pakistan border, all the way to mid-Nimroz Province, Sangin, and Buji valleys north of us. This led to a much higher operation tempo, as well as coming into contact with Taliban [and] IEDs.

Luckily no one was severely injured, and it was a miserable yet positive and nearly fun experience.

I spent the remainder of my time until the end of 2012 training junior Marines for an upcoming deployment and conducting convoy operations when I decided to end my time with the Marine Corps.

Winter training for desert warfare

There are so many great memories I had from my time in.

One particularly funny instance was when we were in Quantico Viper – the Marine Corps’ name for a pre-deployment training exercise to ready us for desert combat operations – just before the holidays.

This was definitely contradicted – when we were the platoon with the only bus driver that would not brave the snow storm, trapping us for another 36 hours. We were all pretty upset as we only wanted to get home to our families as soon as we could, but it turned out to be a great bonding experience for everybody as we dug our forts in the record-breaking snowfall for Virginia. It seemed like it was eight feet… probably not the best for desert ops training.

Marine Corps combat veteran decides a dog is “long overdue”

I have always had dogs growing up. Between the military, and apartment rental living alone, I knew it would be irresponsible to keep a dog around, along with my schedule being a problem.

Since meeting my girlfriend two years ago I had realized our schedules were fairly complementary and a dog would not have to be alone too long.

It was long overdue.

We had been to the shelter before, entertaining the idea, but I somehow could not commit as I wanted to make the best home possible for a dog. When I saw Lima – and met her in person and played with her for a bit – I knew I had to give her a home.

Once I saw a tag on the chainlink of the few dogs’ pens at Baltimore Humane Society for Pets for Patriots, I became curious what the program was. I asked a volunteer what the program was, and they said it was a way to connect pets with veterans. I went home, saw the specifics and knew with the help Pets for Patriots provided I could give Lima the best home I possibly could, no questions asked.

The financial relief for the veterinary visit, and the up front costs of food and toys was tremendous – and meant Lima was coming home! I pulled her name from phonetic alphabet and my company in boot camp at Parris Island.

‘L’ is for Lima, and for love

Lima was very neutral about everything when we first brought her home. She was so hesitant, as she had been in the shelter for a pretty good length of time. It took her about three days to show me her belly and start showing affection.

An animal that is desperate for a home and will be there no matter what, that depends on you for all of its needs, is its own reward once it sees some kindness. It’s incredible every time I come home and let Lima out into her yard because she can’t stand the little time we spend apart.

Adoption through Pets for Patriots makes it less of a burden on the veteran and saves an innocent animal from an intimidating shelter. I don’t think it gets any better than that and couldn’t recommend Pets for Patriots enough.

So far I’ve taken her on long walks – she loves running, fetch, and just about anything but a bath. She’s very smart, house broken, and loves having her own home. We’re still working on socializing with other dogs, as she’s shy and doesn’t do so well with social cues from other strange dogs, but she’s getting there.

She turned into a bit of a challenge, as she definitely had some anxiety and a little fear of other dogs, but is getting better all the time. Now she has a fenced in yard, and we get to spend tons of time together. She went from crate training to now sleeping right next to the bed on a small one of her own.

I can’t imagine a day without Lima anymore, as I take her on road trips and almost everywhere else I go.

Enjoying the everyday life, every day

Lima has plenty of hilarious habits, and it doesn’t hurt her case that she is incredibly clean and always does her business outside. Every time someone leaves the house she runs to the window.

She sometimes tries to climb into my lap from the backseat when I’m driving, and she can’t get enough of peanut butter. She even sits and volunteers a paw to shake every time someone opens a bag that could – maybe – might be food.

]]>https://petsforpatriots.org/marine-corps-combat-veteran-knows-a-pet-can-change-your-life/feed/424659Shelter dog saves life of combat veteran with PTSDhttps://petsforpatriots.org/shelter-dog-saves-life-of-combat-veteran-with-ptsd/
https://petsforpatriots.org/shelter-dog-saves-life-of-combat-veteran-with-ptsd/#commentsMon, 28 Nov 2016 20:06:03 +0000https://petsforpatriots.org/?p=25889Many veterans struggle to navigate the transition from battlefront to home front. Justin is an Army combat veteran …

]]>Many veterans struggle to navigate the transition from battlefront to home front. Justin is an Army combat veteran with PTSD who owes his very life to a shelter dog who saved him from his darkest self.

When courage meets crisis

Justin was fourteen years old when September 11th devastated the country. Just two weeks prior he was crossing the George Washington Bridge on his first visit to New York, marveling at the city from a car window. It was a captivating experience for Justin, who was raised in the small town of Avery, Texas. As the son of a Vietnam veteran Justin felt compelled to join the service and the shock of 9/11 had solidified his resolve to enlist in the Army.

“I always wanted to do it,” he says.

Justin wasted no time. On his 17th birthday he enlisted and soon after began basic training − all before graduating from high school.

“On June 2, 2004, I was standing at reception at Fort Knox Kentucky,” he remembers, “and I was scared to death.”

Once Justin began life as a soldier these initial jitters were soon forgotten.

Realizing purpose in service

Throughout the course of his Army career Justin would be ordered on three overseas deployments.

In 2006, the young soldier was sent to Balad, Iraq, where he served as a human resources specialist. After his thirteen months there he was sent to Fort Sill Oklahoma for more Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to become a field artilleryman. In 2008, he was sent on his second deployment – and his first in a combat arms setting.

On the streets of Baghdad, Justin felt fulfilled.

“That’s where I felt like I belonged,” he reflects, “on the front lines, protecting my brothers and sisters.”

But returning home from this deployment was different. Along with a sense of pride Justin carried invisible wounds. His struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) resulted in hospitalization and placement on 72-hour suicide watch.

This devastating incident prompted Justin to start therapy. It helped to the extent that Justin eventually stopped attending sessions once his life had fallen back into a more peaceful place. He had met his wife, gotten married and was happy.

Where there are dogs, there is hope

When faced with his third deployment in 2010, this time to Afghanistan, Justin was scared. He knew that there was no guarantee he would make it home and it was not just his own life he had to be concerned about.

“I had a family to go back to.”

Justin made it back physically, but he was not the same. After a year in Afghanistan he felt more isolated than ever. He was not able to sleep or eat, and did not want to be around anyone. The physical and mental exhaustion were overwhelming.

The combat veteran with PTSD was struggling to hold his life together, but with the support of a remarkable canine Justin would persevere.

Justin was in awe as soon as he met the Australian Shepherd/Blue Heeler mix. And smitten, too.

“I was in love with him.”

This dog’s name was Duke and he was eligible for adoption through Pets for Patriots. Right away, Justin applied to our program and adopted Duke the following week. Within six months the pair were inseparable.

Best friend and life-saver

Because of Justin’s needs as a combat veteran with PTSD, he and his wife spent a year training Duke to be his service animal. The shelter dog excelled at the training and soon began to accompany Justin to work on the Army base. Initially, Duke’s presence was met with skepticism by some who thought the dog was not necessary. This is an issue that Justin and other handlers of service animals continue to encounter, particularly when their disabilities stem from invisible wounds.

While the vast majority of companion pets have neither the aptitude nor attitude for service, Duke was well suited to be a working dog. In 2013, Justin retired from the military as a Sergeant, with Duke – the former shelter dog – at his side.

Justin’s mental health struggle persisted after his service ended, but this time he had Duke to help him through the pain. At his most disheartened, Justin nearly ended his life. But Duke’s presence did not allow him to do it; instead, the dog did something remarkable.

“Duke has saved my life. There’s no doubt about that,” Justin says, adding that “the feeling of love and stuff. It’s difficult to explain.”

The two share a special connection that can only be known through unconditional love; it is an understanding that needs no explanation. Wherever Justin goes, Duke follows. Even when they visit the dog park Duke spends most of his time attached to Justin’s side.

The hero and his hound

Although Justin is Duke’s best bud, Duke is not short of adoring fans. In 2012 the former shelter dog was named Hometown Hero by the local press. Justin welcomes the attention that Duke receives because it brings joy to others.

The pair enjoy many regular adventures together. On Mondays Duke accompanies Justin when he plays guitar for a veterans’ organization. On other days the duo can be seen shopping together at a local fishing store, and during football or lacrosse season they go to a local park to watch one of Justin’s sons play lacrosse.

Justin may make the final call on where they’re headed, but Duke tries his best to have a say.

“He has herding instincts. He’ll bump you on the leg and he’ll try to get you to go where he wants you to go,” he laughs.

Saving a life without saying a word

Justin takes every opportunity to talk about Pets for Patriots and appreciates all that we do to make pet guardianship more affordable for military veterans. The combat veteran enjoys the quality, discounted veterinary care Duke receives from Westside Animal Hospital, a highly accredited Pets for Patriots veterinary partner in Colorado Springs.

The Army veteran marvels at the miracle of his life’s journey and how Duke has shaped it.

“It’s an amazing story. I just wish I could hear what [Duke] has to say,” he says with a laugh.

Perhaps Duke has said it all through the unwavering love and loyalty that he has given, and continues to give. The unspoken understanding between pet and person is undeniable and life-saving. Their relationship means everything to Justin.

“You could offer me anything in the world,” he says, “and I wouldn’t take it for that dog.”

]]>Terry is an Air Force veteran coping with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and a host of physical challenges. He was in need of a companion with positive energy and unconditional love to spare.

Pippy was a lonely little dog living in a shelter, yearning for a home and human of her own. When the pair finally found each other it was clear that she was meant to be his pint-sized battle buddy.

Life on the frontline of history

Terry joined the United States Air Force on May 27, 1981. After completing basic training he attended technical school for Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) and graduated on May 26, 1982. For the next 19 years Terry served his country as an EOD technician. This career that gave him the opportunity to experience life around the country and around the world.

“I have been stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota, Howard Air Force Base in Panama, Bergstrom Air Force Base in Texas, Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina, Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, and again at Shaw,” Terry says. “I was one of the first five Air Force EODs stationed at Howard, so I got the experience of opening and equipping a brand new organization. While there, Operation Just Cause commenced and the removal of Noriega from power was completed.”

Operation Just Cause – the code name for the 1989 invasion of Panama – was not the only historic event that Terry was involved in during his service.

“While stationed at Bergstrom, I was one of the last EODs to leave before base closure, so I got to experience the redistribution of all EOD assets to other bases fulfilling many shortages that would affect their mission accomplishment,” Terry recalls. “Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm started and required four of the six EOD Technicians to deploy. So I was one of two that were left behind to carry out the mission at home base. Boy, was that challenging.”

Memories

Terry’s list of notable military experiences is lengthy, but two memories remain etched in his mind to this day.

“They really affected me,” he says. “The first was when I was an E-4 stationed at Ellsworth. I was chosen to go to Carswell Air Force Base to explosively dismantle three B-52 aircrafts as part of the SALT talks.”

Another memorable moment for Terry took place while stationed at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.

“I was chosen twice to go to Vietnam as part of a team for POW/MIA recovery missions,” he says. “During these missions, my teams were able to recover enough evidence to close three cases, therefore giving closure to these fallen military members.”

On June 1, 2001 Terry retired out of Shaw Air Force Base after nearly two decades of military service.

Depression, PTSD and a faithful friend

Terry settled in Tampa after his separation from service and still lives there with his wife and stepdaughter. He has faced a series of challenges since retirement, even though his military career is long over.

“I ended up in a wheelchair for about 18 months, unable to walk without a walker – and then only a few feet at a time. So, I am unable to work,” he says. “After three back surgeries, I am able to walk short distances with the walker, but keep the chair around for any long trips. For the first eight months I basically only left my house to go to doctor appointments. I spent most of my day in my bedroom, usually only coming out to eat or use the bathroom.”

Housebound, depressed and lonely, Terry realized that the best cure for his ailments might be waiting for him at his local animal shelter. He needed a battle buddy.

Choosing adoption as the only option

Companion pet adoption seemed like a natural choice for Terry. He saw it as life affirming not only for him, but for the animal he would eventually save from an uncertain fate.

“I chose to adopt a pet because I had so much time on my hands and was basically alone much of that time. I figured by adopting I would be gaining another family member and companion during those times,” he says, adding, “It also would put an animal in a loving home instead of being in a shelter – or even worse.”

It did not take long for Terry to find his perfect companion: a pint-sized battle buddy named Pippy. The fiesta, two year-old Chihuahua and Italian Greyhound mix has an engaging personality that captured Terry’s heart. Just two days after Valentines Day Terry adopted Pippy from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. The shelter has partnered with Pets for Patriots since 2011.

In addition to waiving adoption fees for veterans who join our companion pet adoption program, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay offers an ongoing 10 percent discount at their full-service veterinary hospital for dogs and cats adopted through our partnership.

Little dog is a big blessing

Terry and his wife were deeply in love with Puppy within mere weeks of bringing her home.

“Pippy is a welcome member to our family and everyone loves her,” Terry gushes. “She gets along with our other dog and a friend’s dog I am caring for. She eats up all the attention we give her. She is just so full of spunk. We put her out to potty, and she does her business then runs laps around our fenced-in backyard. I have never seen a dog that small that can run so fast and corner so well!”

Pippy has already helped guide Terry through some of his darkest moments. The pint-sized battle buddy gives him the love and comfort that only a companion pet can provide, including late-night hours when the rest of the family is asleep.

Once homeless, the tiny dog has proven to be a force of healing in Terry’s life. The their bond is now unbreakable.

“She has spent many hours just sitting on my lap or next to me when I would otherwise be alone and without contact with anyone,” Terry shares. “She has listened to me so many times and not once has she complained or told me to hush.”

Pint-sized PTSD battle buddy

“I have never considered suicide an option, but I can see where in the throes of depression and PTSD – along with the many other stresses in life – that someone could,” he says. “Pippy has already been a blessing for me. I spend many nights awake, unable to sleep for various reasons. Pippy does not mind at all spending hours curled up in my lap. It is just a comfort to lay my hand on her and pet her.”

While Terry does have human family living in the house as well, he does not expect them to keep him company during his sleepless nights. This is where Pippy comes in, all of her own initiative.

“Between work and school they cannot spend the night up with me, and nor would I want them to,” he explains. “It is exhausting to not be able to recharge your batteries at night. When Pippy is lying on the foot of my bed or in hers she already knows my routine, and if I get up just to make a short trip to the bathroom, she will raise her head then put it back down. But if I go anywhere else in the house she follows right behind me.”

Pippy has become both lap dog and guard dog to Terry, snuggling against the Air Force veteran one minute and protecting him the next. She is on guard for anyone other than family who gets too close to Terry, despite weighing a mere seven-and-a-half-pounds.

“She will let them know not to mess up,” Terry says. “She has just been a complete blessing. She is kind of like the brothers and sisters that I was separated from at retirement. We depend on each other to get by, and just knowing that keeps things in perspective.”

Pets for Patriots is “the only way to go”

“I didn’t really choose Pets for Patriots – it chose me,” Terry says of the program. “While alone one day spending some time on the internet I saw an ad and began to research it. Once I saw all the advantages they provided for us, I had to go adopt Pippy.”

Pets for Patriots provides a range of benefits to veterans to make pet guardianship more affordable. Once Terry brought Pippy home he received a generous contribution towards ‘welcome home’ basics and access to a variety of pet-related discounts, including savings on top-rated Petplan pet health insurance.

“It has been months,” he says, “and I still have not used all of the things that sponsors provided to the new family.”

Terry wholeheartedly recommends Pets for Patriots to other veterans considering adoption, including those who have not yet thought about the possibility of rescuing a companion animal.

“If they are thinking of adopting a pet, then Pets for Patriots is the only way to go,” he advises. “If they have not thought about it and it would help them deal with their issues – and if they would be able to care for and love a new family member – then this program is what they need to look into.”

Without Pets for Patriots Terry and Pippy may have never found each other. The impact on both of their lives is profound and enduring.

“Thank you, Pets for Patriots, for getting us together,” Terry says. “I have and will continue to let fellow veterans know how great the program is. I am spreading the word about Pets for Patriots. I am sure there are many patriots out there that could use a companion.”

]]>https://petsforpatriots.org/air-force-veteran-with-ptsd-adopts-pint-sized-battle-buddy/feed/424605Afghanistan veteran finds redheaded canine counterparthttps://petsforpatriots.org/afghanistan-veteran-finds-canine-counterpart/
https://petsforpatriots.org/afghanistan-veteran-finds-canine-counterpart/#commentsMon, 14 Nov 2016 20:01:48 +0000https://petsforpatriots.org/?p=25435After traveling the world with the Army an Afghanistan veteran finds her soulmate in an Indianapolis animal shelter: a redheaded canine who …

]]>After traveling the world with the Army an Afghanistan veteran finds her soulmate in an Indianapolis animal shelter: a redheaded canine who needed a home.

A legacy of military service

Sarah grew up in a military family on the northern side of Indianapolis. Her father served in the Army as an infantry officer for 32 years. When he decided to retire, Sarah decided to enlist.

“I realized I did not want to lose that part of my life that was involved with the Army,” she says.

For seven years Sarah served in the Army National Guard, from 2007-2014. During the course of her enlistment she deployed to Afghanistan and worked as an intelligence analyst. Her work involved logistics and supply chain management – moving soldiers and cargo to different areas where and when they were needed.

“There are both positive and negative aspects of deployment,” she says. “It’s difficult to be a female soldier in a mostly male environment, but at the same time it’s a very positive experience to serve your country. I very much enjoyed working with the translators overseas and meeting new people.”

After her separation from military service and re-entry to civilian life, Sarah worked in a variety of positions. She currently works for a school in an administrative capacity. When not at work, the Afghanistan veteran enjoys running and hiking, as well as spending time with her large and close knit family.

“I am one of five children and one of 30 grandchildren. Everyone lives within an hour of each other.”

Fourth time is the charm

Sarah had been eager to get a dog for a long time, but living in an apartment put those plans on hold. Once she bought a house and had the proper space she knew she had to find a four-legged companion.

“I had to talk myself into going to the shelter for the first time,” she confides. “Not because I didn’t want to go, but I just knew I would find a dog on that first visit.”

Sarah believes that “adopting shelter dogs is the only way to go” because there are so many wonderful animals who face a grim future if not adopted.

“I had a dog with my ex-husband and that dog was a rescue as well,” she shares. “It’s important to adopt from shelters, it gives the dog another chance.”

Sarah met Ivy, a then three year-old Dogue de Bordeaux/Mastiff mix, at the Humane Society of Indianapolis. The shelter has partnered with Pets for Patriots since 2010 and offers a 35 percent discount on all pet adoption fees to veterans in our program.

As Sarah predicted, it was love at first sight when she set her eyes upon the fiery-haired canine.

“When I met her I fell in love with how big and dopey she was,” Sarah says. “She’s a redhead like me!”

Lucy the redheaded canine

The Army veteran adopted the big dog and promptly renamed her Lucy after the TV icon, Lucille Ball. Soon thereafter Sarah learned that she was Lucy’s fourth home. The redheaded canine had been surrendered to the shelter by her first owner and returned to the shelter by the second.

“At first I thought I was her third home, but the vet told me she had had a microchip put in and it wasn’t put in by any of her former owners, ” Sarah explains. “I am actually the fourth owner she’s had.”

The humane society staff explained that Lucy was repeatedly surrendered because her previous guardians said that she was not social.

“That ended up being 100% not true,” Sarah says.

Shelters often rely on whatever information is shared with them by the person returning their pet, and often that information turns out to be inaccurate. Sometimes people are reluctant to admit the real reasons they are giving up their dog or cat; other times they simply have not given these pets the chance they deserve to acclimate to their new surroundings.

As it turns out, Lucy is quite the socialite.

“She’s pretty laid back, she’s just a big dope, and she doesn’t realize how big she even is.”

Sarah wonders if all of Lucy’s previous guardians simply lacked the patience to get to know her, or whether they found her youthful energy too much for them to handle.

“I work with special needs children, so I am a patient person in general,” she says. “Maybe that is why we are so right for each other. She does have a lot of energy.”

Go red

Sarah and Lucy share similar personalities, in addition to both being redheads.

“I love how she’s a lot like me. She can be both social and reserved. We can have fun together and also give each other space and quiet time when we each need it,” Sarah says, adding that the big dog “loves being around people.”

As it happens Sarah took her cues from her father in more ways than one. The retired Army officer told his daughter that various groups help military veterans with the costs associated with pet adoption and guardianship. With a few keystrokes and a couple of clicks, Sarah found our organization.

“Pets for Patriots came up right away in my search,” she recalls, “and they were very easy to get hold of and very responsive.”

The Afghanistan veteran had a positive experience with our partners at the Humane Society of Indianapolis as well, and now she continually refers other veterans to adopt through this partnership.

“It is such an awesome program.”

Most important, Sarah found her redheaded canine counterpart, and both of their lives are the better for it.

]]>https://petsforpatriots.org/afghanistan-veteran-finds-canine-counterpart/feed/325435Stray dog adopts Navy family of his ownhttps://petsforpatriots.org/stray-dog-adopts-navy-family-of-his-own/
https://petsforpatriots.org/stray-dog-adopts-navy-family-of-his-own/#commentsMon, 07 Nov 2016 20:09:19 +0000https://petsforpatriots.org/?p=25437Typically we think of people adopting pets, but often it is the other way around. So it was with …

]]>Typically we think of people adopting pets, but often it is the other way around. So it was with one San Diego stray dog who adopted a Navy veteran as his own, and who now enjoys island life in Hawaii with his new military family.

Service at heart

In 2007, Tracey began her eight-year career as a Seabee at Port Hueneme in Southern California. Military life felt natural to Tracey, who had gown up in a Navy household.

“It wasn’t any different from being at home,” she says. “I enjoyed every minute of it.”

Tracey worked as a construction electrician for the duration of her eight years in the service and loved the physical nature of her role. However, what she loved most about serving was her involvement in charity work. She found working with Habitat for Humanity particularly gratifying and was able to put her considerable skills to use.

Over the course of her military service Tracey deployed to Japan, as well as several Individual Augmentee (IA) deployments, wherein sailors leave their designated command to deploy individually or as part of a small group.

Cats and crawdads, but no canines

Tracey had learned about Pets for Patriots from a brochure at her local municipal animal shelter around the same time that she laid to rest her beloved Pekingese.

Devastated at the loss, the Navy veteran and her young son, Astian, headed to the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services to find another pet friend to love. The shelter has been one of our adoption partners since 2011 and offers deeply discounted dog and cat adoptions to veterans in our program.

Ironically, Tracey never had dogs growing up; her mother did not like them. The family had cats, rabbits, lizards, hamsters, crawdads and a praying mantis. Now that she had a family of her own, however, Tracey wanted a dog. For her, adoption was the only option.

“I wanted to adopt,” she explains, adding that she does not like buying pets from breeders.

Picked by the paw

Upon arrival at the shelter Tracey and Astian selected a few large dogs to meet and greet. The Navy veteran was a single mother at the time and knew she wanted a larger dog for protection.

All of the dogs proceeded to smell around the fenced meeting area, except for one peculiar dog named Rodger. Despite his visible timidity, the shepherd/retriever mix approached the pair right away – and at that moment they knew he was the one.

“He chose us,” Tracey remembers.

Tracy describes how Rodger was the perfect mix: she wanted a larger, yet child-friendly dog, one who was big enough to play with yet old enough to not require a lot of additional training. Rodger fit the bill, despite him having been found as a stray with no known history.

Aiden swiftly renamed the then two year-old dog Shooter, who now has four years worth of adoption anniversaries under his collar. Tracey has since married a Marine and the entire family – Shooter included – has been relocated to Hawaii by the military.

The Seabee and the sea-loving dog

Life with Shooter has been nothing short of joyful.

“It’s a comforting feeling when we get home,” Tracey shares, “He just seems really happy. In the shelter he looked so sad.”

The Navy veteran confesses that Shooter is now “very spoiled.” Her family has since adopted another dog who has become Shooter’s best buddy, aptly named Bullet. The duo dote on Tracey every chance they get.

Five mornings a week Shooter and Tracey power walk five miles together, and other days they go on scenic hikes. Yet they both miss the famous dog-friendly beaches of San Diego; the ocean is not as accessible in Hawaii as their previous home in Coronado. Still, Shooter managed to help Astian feel comfortable with one undeniable fact of island life: being surrounded by water.

Shooter’s love for the ocean helped Tracey’s son overcome his fear of the water. Watching him jump into the waves with such ease and enthusiasm gave Astian the courage to join in on the fun.

“He’s an extremely loyal family dog,” Tracey says.

Stray dog adopts Navy family and gets so much more

This once stray dog chose wisely when he picked this Navy family, who cherishes him for his native sweetness.

“He’s very compassionate, he listens, he doesn’t eat through my entire house like some other dogs would,” Tracy says, laughing. “He’s my fun-favorite and best friend.”

Tracey chose to adopt through Pets for Patriots because we serve active and separated military, recognize the challenges they face, and know how the right companion pet can make life better for person and pet alike.

“They were very helpful, and very military friendly and understanding,” she says. “I’d recommend them to everybody.”

]]>Solo is a special needs dog who saved his Navy rescuer “a thousand times over.” This is their story.

Solo

My story to Pets for Patriots from Angela, from my heart to yours.

A volunteer at Utah Animal Adoption Center (UACC) named him. I believe they named him Solo because he has a kindred, free spirit. I never got to meet the volunteer who named him, but that’s what I’ve come to know – he is named Solo for his spirit, not a Hans Solo reference (maybe it IS a Hans Solo reference – good guy). You decide for yourself!!

Solo has anxiety, just like I do, as a veteran with PTSD/MST (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder with Military Sexual Trauma). Solo was betrayed too. He was abandoned in a field somewhere in Utah by his previous owner and it took two months for animal control bring him in.

It became a sad and enduring moment when Solo’s time was up at the first shelter he was brought to. That’s when UACC stepped in and rescued him once more. He was barely at UACC a month when I fell in love with him. My son, Aiden, who at the time was five years old, fell in love too. I lost so much after reporting the sexual assault (rape) while on active duty Navy, even after an Honorable discharge in 2006, my marriage of five years ended in 2010 in part to the PTSD, I believe.

The savior and the saved

Solo has saved me a thousand times over since adopting him. I know I have saved him too, along with Pets for Patriots‘ support both emotionally and financially.

Since adopting him, Solo received a full medical work up to see what’s going on with him, regular veterinary care, dental cleaning, stem cell therapy, and pain management for his hip dysplasia and neurological symptoms. The veterinarian believes, as do I, [that] he was abused and possibly hit by a vehicle at some point in his early life. He was two years old when I adopted him on February 6, 2013 and he is now five years of age.

Solo has also received much love and TLC from Aiden and I. If it weren’t for having Solo, especially during the most pivotal times of my life, to name a few – the three-year custody battle of my son, Aiden, the PTSD triggers and reminders – I can honestly say I wouldn’t be here.

When someone says, “An animal is just an animal,” I say “No.” Animals save our lives and we should strive to do the same for them. I am living proof of just that.

Solo has saved me and I’m still here, alive and managing with the PTSD/MST – and so is Solo, alive and happy and well taken care of in a loving home. Thank you Pets for Patriots for advocating for us all, especially for the Solos in the world.

Special needs dog is a “guardian angel on earth”

Solo helps me and has helped me, and continues to do so.

Here is one sweet memory I’d like to share: he fell asleep with his head on my chest, in my bed, snoring the first day I adopted him. I believe he had not felt safe in a very, very long time and for once he did with me. I gave him refuge and in return he provided me SAFETY.

Solo saved me and my son Aiden, and has brought so much joy to our lives. He keeps a watchful eye over us both, especially my son Alden. Solo is always at my side.

I don’t know how much time I will have with Solo, but I have done everything I can to manage his health and pain and give him the happy, fulfilling life he deserves. I cherish each moment and every breathing second with him.

Solo is my guardian angel on earth. He is our guardian angel on earth, for Alden and I.

Peace at last

I hadn’t felt peace in a long time prior to adopting Solo.

I felt peace the moment he looked into my eyes at UACC. It was an instant connection for Aiden and I. Looking back, we have moved forward in a huge way, me, Aiden and Solo. We’ve moved forward on the path we chose – pure happiness and bliss.

Thank you to Pets for Patriots for answering the call of duty because no one told you that you had to – you chose to rise to the occasion in saving animals lives and those like myself, wounded in a battle we may have not necessarily chosen ourselves, or at all. Thank you.

]]>Get ready for the only “vote” that counts: our limited time, limited edition Stars and Stripes Furever fundraiser with Treat Me Right, makers and bakers of organic, all natural, human-grade, made in the USA dog treats!

Stars and Stripes Furever treats

Proceeds of all orders placed through Tuesday, November 8th at 11pm ET will be donated to Pets for Patriots to fund life-saving companion pet adoptions for military veterans.

Yes, our fundraiser ends on election day. We like to call it the only vote that counts because it helps our nation’s heroes – as well as the hounds (and kitties) they adopt through our program.

There are two ways you can help make our fundraiser a howling success: buy treats for dogs or buy treats for humans.

Buy treats for dogs

The good folks at Treat Me Right have created red, white and blue bone treats – our Stars and Stripes Furever special – just for us. While we hope that you buy them for all the pups on your list, any treat item you buy will generate a 20%-33% donation to our cause.

Buy treats for humans

Don’t have a dog? Don’t worry; you can still help us raise funds when you buy Happy Human treats. Same great quality as the ones that Treat Me Right makes for the pups: organic, all natural and (naturally) human-grade. And all made in America!

Buy treats that go to the dogs!

Okay, so there’s actually a third way to support our mission and work: buy dog treats and donate them to any of our shelter partners across the country, which you can find here. Pets for Patriots will still receive the monetary donation, and shelter pups get some mighty tasty (and healthy) treats while they wait for their “furever” homes.

Fund our work by treating your pet

Whether you buy treats for your favorite dog or human, or for dogs at a Pets for Patriots shelter/rescue partner, know that every treat you purchase funds our life-saving work and provides healing at both ends of the leash.

]]>https://petsforpatriots.org/stars-stripes-furever-fundraiser/feed/225302Oversized lap dog completes Army familyhttps://petsforpatriots.org/oversized-lap-dog-completes-army-family/
https://petsforpatriots.org/oversized-lap-dog-completes-army-family/#commentsMon, 24 Oct 2016 18:47:48 +0000https://petsforpatriots.org/?p=24558With the energy of three young children filling its halls, Mark’s household is certainly a busy one. His …

]]>With the energy of three young children filling its halls, Mark’s household is certainly a busy one. His active family never felt complete, however, until the Army Captain and his wife made the decision to adopt an overlooked, oversized lap dog named Bells.

Military success and foster “failure”

Mark has been serving in the United States Army since 2003 and is currently an O3, or Captain. When reflecting on his many years of service in the military, he cites deployment as the most memorable experience.

Now living in Virginia with his wife and three young children, the Army officer and his wife did not hesitate to visit their local shelter – the Virginia Beach SPCA – after realizing they wanted to add a fourth, furry member to their brood. For this family, adopting a companion pet was the only option.

“We wanted to help the dog as much as she helps us,” Mark explains.

Their search for a canine companion eventually led them to Bells, a three-and-a-half-year-old English Setter mix who had been waiting patiently for a human to call her own. In spite of her cute smile and polite manners, however, Bells could not seem to catch a break – but that all changed the moment she met Mark.

The Army officer was instantly charmed by Bells’ sweet personality. He and his wife decided to foster her to find out if she would be a good fit for their family and lifestyle.

The overlooked, oversized lap dog to made the decision an easy one. After seeing how well Bells behaved around their children and how much joy she brought to their lives it did not take them long to figure out that Bells was there to stay.

Whistling Dixie

Since being adopted, Bells has proven to be an ideal fit for this Army family and a testament to the value of pet adoption.

“Bells is perfect,” Mark says. “We renamed her Dixie, and she is an absolutely perfect dog. She plays well with our children and obeys every command. I don’t have a single negative thing to say about her. We really lucked out with how great she is!”

While many parents opt to bring home a puppy or kitten for their kids, Mark knew that a more laid-back adult dog was the right match for his crew. At the same time he would be saving an animal who faced added challenges simply for being a large, more mature dog.

“We got Dixie right before my daughter turned one year old,” he recalls. “It’s been fun watching them grow together. Dixie is very good with all three of the kids and goes on daily bike rides with our family. She especially loves our nightly bike rides where she trots along next to my bike.”

Dixie’s love for her new family is endless, and she has swiftly become a loyal, devoted defender of those who saved her life.

“She is the most loving dog we have had,” Mark explains. “She is active and protective of our family.”

Although Dixie enjoys exercising with her people, she knows when it is time to rest and curl up on the couch for a cuddle. Her mellow moments have proven to be contagious; Mark and his family find themselves more relaxed in her presence.

“She definitely brings calm to our crazy household when she snuggles up on my lap each evening,” he says. “She is a 50-pound lap dog and senses emotions, and makes sure to try to brighten each person’s day.”

Helping pets and veterans

Mark first learned about Pets for Patriots and our companion pet adoption program for military veterans through the Virginia Beach SPCA. The shelter has been both an adoption and veterinary partner since 2012, helping us place more than 200 of the most overlooked, undervalued dogs and cats into loving military homes.

“The VBSPCA is a big supporter of Pets for Patriots,” Mark says. “And they alerted me to this awesome organization. I love the idea that you’re helping both pets and veterans through your organization. My favorite organization I’ve ever dealt with!”

The Army Captain encourages veterans seeking companion animals to adopt through Pets for Patriots. Veterans are eligible to apply whether they are active duty, like Mark, reserve or separated.

“Definitely do it,” he says. “You would be crazy not to. Thanks to the program, we were able to get some extra benefits and ordered [Dixie] some great food.”

Most of all, Dixie brings a special kind of joy to this Army family. Now saved, this oversized lap dog’s sweet personality is contagious – and Mark cannot imagine not having his faithful friend by their sides.

]]>You can now donate your spare change to Pets for Patriots when you shop in-store or online through our new partnership with Bstow. This free micro-donation app makes it easy and secure to round up your spare digital change – automatically – every time you shop.

Connect the bank accounts and credit cards you use to make everyday purchases

Use your credit or debit card anywhere; Bstow will round up your spare change to the nearest dollar and donate it to us on your behalf

To manage your giving you can set a maximum monthly limit and can send yourself a donation receipt through Bstow at any time. The app uses bank-level security, and works with more than 18,000 financial institutions and credit unions.

Make change happen by sending us your spare change today! CLICK HERE to get started.

]]>https://petsforpatriots.org/donate-spare-change/feed/025199Dine and donatehttps://petsforpatriots.org/dine-and-donate/
https://petsforpatriots.org/dine-and-donate/#respondTue, 18 Oct 2016 17:25:31 +0000https://petsforpatriots.org/?p=25157Over the past year Pets for Patriots has participated in a variety of “dine and donate” fundraisers that …

]]>Over the past year Pets for Patriots has participated in a variety of “dine and donate” fundraisers that take what people already enjoy – eating out – and turning it into an instant charity event. We have worked with Bob Evans Restaurants and Houlihan’s, and most recently with Ricky’s English Pub in Salem, Ohio.

This particular event was coordinated by another small business in Salem, Adamson Veterinary Services, that participates in our national veterinary partner program.

With our approval, Adamson created a collection of one-page menu inserts, each of which featured a veteran-pet adoption story from our Wet Nose Blog. The goal was to create awareness of how Pets for Patriots impacts the real lives of people and animals who benefit from our program and services. By sharing these stories, diners understand how donations generated from their evening out will be put to good use helping those in need.

We called the event “Chow for Charity,” and 10 percent of the evening’s proceeds were donated to fund our life-saving work. To help spread the word we created a custom flyer, pictured here, that Adamson Veterinary and Ricky’s English Pub could distribute throughout their community prior to the event. The evening was a success. Proceeds will fully fund one veteran-pet adoption, with leftover funds set aside to help veterans in our program experiencing temporary financial hardship care for their adopted pets.

Do you own, manage or know of an eatery in your community that would like to participate in a dine and donate event? If so, please fill out a brief online fundraising application, which we require of all individuals and businesses raising funds in our name.